Astros’ trade candidate: shortstop Jed Lowrie

With the trade deadline about six weeks away, we’ll start reviewing the Astros’ trade options each week.

Today: Jed Lowrie.

Since GM Jeff Luhnow traded for Lowrie in the off season, it’s reasonable to conclude that the Astros projected the switch-hitting 28-year-old to be a part of the rebuilding program. He would supposedly be in his prime when the Astros return to contention and respectability by 2014.

The former first round pick had played every infield position for the Red Sox over parts of four seasons as a starter and backup. Now, playing shortstop exclusively for the Astros, he’s settled into the three hole for the past month. He leads all NL shortstops with 13 HRs and an .858 OPS and he could be an upgrade option for teams looking to improve in the second half.

He could also be a great option for the Astros for the next few years.

Yes, Lowrie is one trade possibility who could give Luhnow reason for pause as he considers the trade deadline. So, as the Astros approach the July 31 deadline, here’s a look at the pros and cons to trading one of the team’s most consistent producers in 2012.

Pros (trade him).

He may be at the height of his potential and his trade prospects may not get any better than right now.

Lowrie is a bargain this season at $1.15 million, but by 2014, he could be asking for $6-$8 million (or more) in arbitration.

Injuries. Ah, yes, one of the knocks against Lowrie is the fact he hasn’t stayed healthy since he was drafted. Whether it’s mono or a wrist issue, he’s spent a lot of time on the DL, including the first six games of this season.

I actually projected him as the Astros’ biggest disappointment, simply because he wouldn’t play in 100 games due to injuries. (Ah, if you want to slam me on that one, remember in the same entry I also projected Dallas Keuchel as an organizational sleeper for 2012.)

Cons (Keep him!)

He could finally be getting his chance and be much more valuable even in the off season or next trade deadline.

He’d be 30 in 2014 and right in line with next time Houston is competitive and respectable.

How easy is it to find a quality shortstop who can hit?

Team control: He won’t be a free agent until 2015.

Despite performing well, the return may be diminished by the injury history.

Who would fill the hole left: Angel Sanchez? The long-term prospects listed above are at least two-to-four years away.

The decision on Lowrie could be a gamble for Luhnow either way.

If the Astros keep him and he proves to be injury-prone his entire career, the decision is a bust. If Houston trades him and the trade is a bust, then Lowrie turns into a long-term success with his new team, Houston obviously loses.

Decision: If the Astros can get quality return, trade Lowrie and move Jimmy Paredes to shorstop.